2025 07 17 22 47 22

Summary

This conversation revolves around an executive's inquiry into a professional program that focuses on publishing thought leadership articles and networking within a global tech community. The representative explains the opportunities for contributing original content to Forbes, with a 4-5 week review process, as well as the access to a directory of executives in fields like AI, gaming, and cybersecurity. They also discuss membership fees, networking benefits, and the potential for increased visibility. The conversation concludes with a discussion of the client’s interest in gaming and their next steps in the decision-making process.

Takeaways

• 😀 The program focuses on helping executives grow by providing a platform for publishing and networking, with an on-demand approach where participants can pick and choose based on preference.
• 😀 There are two main publishing options: long-form articles where participants pick their own topics, and expert panels where responses to topical questions lead to quick visibility.
• 😀 Publishing content involves writing original, non-promotional, and industry-specific insights. Articles go through a review process that takes 4-5 weeks for each piece.
• 😀 Published articles appear directly on Forbes.com, contributing to thought leadership within the tech industry, specifically in the innovation channel.
• 😀 Participants can publish multiple articles in a year, with most members aiming for a quarterly release schedule, but higher frequency is also possible depending on the content review process.
• 😀 Networking within the program includes a global directory of tech executives and access to member-led groups, including AI, cybersecurity, app engineering, and more.
• 😀 The community consists mainly of technical professionals working at the core of tech companies, rather than those in marketing or non-technical roles.
• 😀 There is a large and diverse network, with 2,000 members in the tech space, and 1,200 members in the AI-focused group alone, including notable members from companies like Apple and Standard Bank.
• 😀 Events are primarily virtual and cover a wide range of topics, including AI agents, predictable growth, quantum computing, and more. These events are recorded for global accessibility.
• 😀 The program offers a membership fee structure with an initiation fee of $600 and an annual fee of $2,700, which covers all benefits and locks in the rate for future years.
• 😀 While the program does not specifically target gaming investors or VCs, networking with other executives may naturally lead to opportunities. However, it is not a platform for direct solicitation of investment.
• 😀 Podcast and interview opportunities are driven by members, and participants are encouraged to connect independently for these types of engagements.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the program discussed in the transcript?

The main focus of the program is to provide a platform for executives to grow by offering opportunities in publishing, networking, and branding, with a special emphasis on technology and innovation.

How does the publishing process work within the program?

The publishing process includes two options: long-form pieces where executives write original, non-promotional articles on topics relevant to their industry, and expert panel contributions where they respond to open-ended tech-related questions. The process involves editing and takes around 4-5 weeks per article, and the published articles appear on Forbes.com.

Are contributors allowed to republish existing content from platforms like LinkedIn?

No, contributors must submit original content. However, they can restructure or combine previous articles to create new content, as long as it adheres to the program's originality guidelines.

What is the frequency at which articles can be published?

Articles are typically published one at a time, with a 4-5 week review process. Most members aim to publish around four times a year, though some may publish up to eight or nine articles annually depending on their schedule.

What types of networking opportunities are available in the program?

The program offers a variety of networking opportunities, including a directory of members, forums for communication, member-led groups, and expert panels. Members can also attend virtual events and engage with others through the community’s various channels.

Is there a directory to find specific people or groups within the network?

Yes, the program provides a directory where members can search for individuals by industry or expertise. There are also groups dedicated to specific areas like AI, cybersecurity, gaming, and more.

Can members connect with investors or venture capitalists through the network?

While the program does not explicitly focus on connecting members with investors, members can network with others in the community, and some may have connections to investors. However, members cannot use the community as a direct leads list.

What are the details regarding the membership fees for the program?

The program requires a one-time non-refundable initiation fee of $600. The annual membership fee is $2,700, with options for a two-year commitment or a premium membership. Payments are required upfront.

Can members participate in podcasts or interviews as part of the program?

Yes, members can participate in podcasts or interviews, but these opportunities are member-driven. The program does not facilitate direct connections with journalists or arrange interviews, but members can reach out to each other to arrange these opportunities.

How are virtual events managed within the program?

Virtual events are hosted throughout the year and are recorded for global participation. Events cover various topics like AI, quantum computing, and leadership, and are accessible to members regardless of their location.